Chain link fencing is durable and can last for decades. Like most everything in life, though, it doesn’t last forever.

Improper fencing doesn’t protect your yard or home the way it should. In addition, it can be an eyesore to your and your neighbors’ properties. Worst of all, it could be a danger to your pets and small children.

If you bought a house that came with chain link fencing around your property, you might be wondering how to tell when it’s time for a replacement. Here are some telltale signs to look for, along with a tip to make your current one last longer.

Three Signs You Need to Replace Your Chain Link Fence

(Jon Moore/Unsplash)

Rust

Good quality chain link fences (also known as wire-mesh fences) are typically coated in zinc or vinyl to better withstand the elements. However, even durable coatings eventually break down, especially if that coating gets scuffed or damaged.

A spot of rust every now and again is to be expected and not a cause for concern. Tip: In fact, you can file off rust spots with a piece of steel wool, and you’ll want to do that to prevent its rapid spread.

Once rust begins to form, it will inevitably spread over time. Large sections of rust will compromise the strength and durability of the fence. A replacement will be needed soon if large areas of rust are present.

Broken, Damaged, or Missing Links

A missing or damaged piece of link, no matter how small, presents a big problem. This type of damage is often seen when:

  1. Someone cut the wire (as in an attempted break-in or to gain access to a separate area).
  2. A storm with high winds has damaged it.
  3. There has been a physical impact, as with a collision.

A hole that starts small will get larger. Once large enough that a person (or the family pets) can squeeze through, it’s no longer protecting you or your property in the way you want. It can even be dangerously tempting for a child to try to get through. You’ll want to replace a fence with a hole in it to avoid potentially dangerous situations.

Warping, Sagging, or Leaning

If your fence has warping, sagging, or leaning sections, it’s typically an indication that the frame is compromised somewhere. A physical impact, like a collision or crash, generally is to blame for bends or warps. However the warping, sagging, or leaning occurs, damage like this leaves the entire structure vulnerable.

The frame is the backbone and support system of the entire structure. Damage to it will have a domino effect on the rest of the fence.

Wind, snow, or ice can all cause stress on your support system, and all three of these can be especially bad in Colorado. Frost heave, caused by freezing cold ground temperatures, can affect your fencing, too. If the posts haven’t been set correctly in the soil below the frost line, freezing water below ground will expand and push fence posts upwards.

A leaning framework can further expose the posts and footings to environmental damage. The exposed foundations can allow the elements, like rain, snow, and soil, in. The additional water or soil movement can cause the structure to shift more rapidly. Eventually, the entire system will give way to environmental issues.

This type of destruction results in a barrier that is no longer protective. At that point, the fence needs to be replaced.

Fences: Protective and Aesthetic Features

Your fencing is meant to protect you, your loved ones, pets, and property. If yours is in need of repair, it can impact that protection. Unwanted people and animals can get it; beloved pets and family can try to get out.

In addition, a failing chain link fence can muddy the look of your property and bring down your real estate value as well as that of your entire neighborhood. Be a good steward of your and your neighborhood’s property by staying vigilant with rust spots and replacing your chain link fence as needed.

Update Your Outdoor Space

When you’re thinking about updating your fence, it’s also a great time to consider updates in other outdoor areas. An old, rotting deck or patio is an eye sore at best and dangerous at worst. It takes up space but is not fully functional or enjoyable.

Call our Denver custom outdoor carpentry pros. We’ll help you install everything from custom decks and patios to patio covers and pergolas. Not only can we help you make a flawed deck functional, but we can also help you make the most of your outdoor living space.

We’ll give you back valuable outdoor spaces that function well and are a pleasure to spend time in—and significantly increase your property’s value in the process.

Infographic

Did you purchase a home with a chain link fence surrounding the property? A chain link fence is great to have due to its durability and long lifespan, but in this case, how do you tell if the chain link fence is still good enough or requires a replacement? We have the answer to this question and more in this infographic.

3 Signs You Need to Replace Your Chain Link Fence Infographic

Author

  • Nate Barrett

    As the President of SRI Decks, my greatest satisfaction comes from the immediate sense of fulfillment that our work brings. From the initial design discussions with our customers to the moment we capture the final project in photos, I feel an immense pride in my team for their dedicated efforts. My passion for hands-on work and outdoor projects is matched only by the joy I derive from seeing a delighted customer when we’ve successfully completed a job. Fun Facts: I like hot chocolate in my coffee. I’ve been with SRI for 12 years, prior to ownership. I have a daughter, 3 dogs and a loving girlfriend.

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